HOUGHTON — This summer, 65 volunteers came together to create something truly extraordinary: a week of safe, joy-filled summer camp memories for 50 Allegany County children, all referred by the Department of Social Services (DSS).

From July 7-12, 2024, Houghton Royal Family Kids Camp (RFKC) returned to Camp Asbury in Perry, NY, for its 29th year of making moments matter for children who’ve experienced trauma, neglect, or multiple foster placements.

With help from the United Way of Cattaraugus & Allegany Counties, the camp used its first allocation of funding to cover housing costs for 30 dedicated counselors and roving counselors, as well as the required background checks for volunteers — many of whom return year after year. This low staff turnover builds meaningful, lasting bonds between campers and trusted, caring adults.

A key to RFKC’s success is its non-negotiable counselor-to-camper ratio of 1:2. Each volunteer is trained in trauma-informed care, creating a supportive environment where every child is seen, heard, and celebrated. Campers are “reserved a spot” at camp each year until they age out at 12, allowing returning children to experience stability, continuity, and personal growth over several summers.

Those relationships matter. One volunteer shared, Sam was less anxious than last year, though this is still a struggle. She was so happy to see many of her ‘favorite’ staff back at camp. This is our third year together as counselor and camper, and I can’t wait for next year.”

The impact of camp is clear in the stories counselors bring home:

• “I am so happy to see the progress that Henry has made over the past three years, from never being in a pool to now passing his swim test and even tubing!”
• “Chuck was a gem — very shy, but so brave and filled with wonder and amazement.”
• “Dean LOVED camp! He really came out of his shell, singing the songs and doing the motions.”
• “When asked what he liked best about camp, Tim said, ‘Everything!’”

Beyond swimming and singing, RFKC creates powerful emotional moments, too. One camper, Ben, often hides behind a tough exterior. But during the week’s closing ceremony, he raised his hand and told the gathered staff and volunteers, “We want you to know how much we appreciate all of you.”

These moments, big and small, are exactly why the camp’s motto is “Make Moments Matter.” Campers leave with new friendships, renewed confidence, and a photo album full of joyful memories — proof that their summer vacation was not just safe, but magical.

Planning is underway for 2025’s camp, which will mark RFKC’s 30th summer of service to children in Allegany County. With continued support from United Way donors, Houghton RFKC will welcome 52 campers from July 6-11.

In addition, eight former campers will return as volunteers to create for campers the types of positive memories that they enjoyed as youth.

Houghton’s RFKC is one of more than 200 Royal Family Kids Camps that operate across the nation and in a few overseas countries. Houghton’s program is made possible through the collaboration of the national organization overseeing the camps (“For the Children”), the local DSS (Allegany County), and Houghton Wesleyan Church.

Thank you for helping make these life-changing moments possible. Because of you, kids who’ve endured so much are finding joy, connection, and hope.